Long Noncoding RNAs as Emerging Regulators of Seed Development, Germination, and Senescence

Area of Science:

• Plant biology
• Molecular genetics
• Epigenetics

Background:

• Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are increasingly recognized as critical regulators of gene expression.
• Their roles in plant development, particularly in seeds, are a rapidly evolving area of research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diverse roles of lncRNAs in various stages of seed development and physiology.
• To integrate current knowledge on lncRNA biogenesis, classification, and functional mechanisms in seeds.
• To explore emerging evidence and translational applications of lncRNAs in seed science.

Main Methods:

• Literature review integrating current understanding of lncRNA biology in seeds.
• Focus on lncRNA mechanisms including chromatin remodeling, RNA-directed DNA methylation, and decoy functions.
• Discussion of regulatory roles in hormone signaling (ABA, GA) and light responses.

Main Results:

• lncRNAs regulate key seed processes: embryogenesis, maturation, dormancy, germination, and aging.
• Functional mechanisms include cis/trans regulation, chromatin modification, and small RNA pathway modulation.
• lncRNAs influence ABA/GA signaling, light responses, endosperm imprinting, epitranscriptomics (m6A), and RBP condensate formation.

Conclusions:

• lncRNAs are central players in seed development and physiology, acting through diverse molecular mechanisms.
• Advanced transcriptomic and epigenomic techniques are crucial for elucidating the lncRNA landscape.
• lncRNAs hold promise as biomarkers for seed vigor and longevity, with potential translational applications.